It is another era at the Army Headquarters as the 25th Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, officially assumed command of the Nigerian Army with expectations and the weight of responsibility that characterize such a high position.
Zig Diaries | Defence
Date: Thursday, 30 October 2025
Time: 11:30 WAT
Location: 📍 Army Headquarters, Abuja, Nigeria
General Olufemi Oluyede, now the Chief of Defence Staff, handed over command to another seasoned military officer as he takes on the higher responsibility of overseeing the three components of the Armed Forces - the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, and Nigerian Navy - under the Defence Headquarters.
The footsteps of the Regimental Sergeant Major marching into the hall with the command flag before ushering in the incoming and outgoing chiefs signaled the proceedings at the Army Headquarters.
The outgoing Chief of Army Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, while addressing officers and men of the Nigerian Army, called for continued loyalty, discipline, and professionalism among officers and soldiers as he reflected on his one-year stewardship, describing it as a period of purpose, sacrifice, and institutional growth.
“It is with a deep sense of humility and profound gratitude that I stand before you today to hand over the reins of leadership of the Nigerian Army to the incoming Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, with gratitude to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other Service Chiefs for their collaboration, emphasizing that the achievements of his tenure were collective efforts rooted in inter-service synergy.
General Oluyede also saluted the resilience, courage, and professionalism of troops at the frontlines, acknowledging their tireless work and devotion to duty in defence of the nation.
“You have all worked tirelessly, endured immense hardship, and displayed exceptional discipline and devotion to duty in defence of our great nation,” he added.
He urged officers and men to rally behind Major General Shaibu, describing him as a thoroughbred professional, a man of integrity, vision, and remarkable competence.
“I have no doubt that the Nigerian Army is in capable hands. Waidi, my prayers and full support are with you. You can always count on me for guidance or advice whenever needed,” Oluyede said.
The new Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu, who previously commanded the theatre of operations in the North East, assured personnel that his administration will consolidate ongoing reforms to strengthen operational efficiency and inter-agency synergy. He acknowledged the sacrifices of troops, pledging to prioritize their welfare and morale.
“I understand your sacrifices and the challenges you face. I feel your pains, and I feel for your families. We shall not disappoint you,” he affirmed.
The new Army Chief paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, describing him as a leader who brought empathy, purpose, and strategic vision to the force.
“Lieutenant General Oluyede’s stewardship has brought a quantum leap in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and purposeful leadership that positioned the Nigerian Army on an enviable pedestal. He entrenched the ‘Soldier First’ concept, one I intend to sustain and improve upon,” Shaibu stated.
General Shaibu also expressed appreciation to senior officers retiring following his appointment, noting that their loyalty and service helped sustain the Army’s growth trajectory.
Earlier, the Chief of Policy and Plans, Nigerian Army, Major General Abdulsalami Abraham, paid tribute to the outgoing Chief of Army Staff while welcoming the incoming Chief, describing the event as a significant moment in the Army’s history, marking the transition from one era of purposeful leadership to another.
With the conclusion of the signing of handing and taking over notes and speeches, the ceremony moved to the Quarter Guard where the Nigerian Army flag was lowered to signify the end of an era and a new flag raised to mark the beginning of a new chapter in Army leadership.
Fact-Check & Background Context:
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu succeeds General Olufemi Oluyede as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.
General Oluyede now serves as Chief of Defence Staff, leading the three branches of the Armed Forces.
Major General Shaibu previously served as Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, in the North East.
The change of command signifies a continuation of reform-focused leadership emphasizing troop welfare, discipline, and modernization.
🏷️ Tags: Nigerian Army, Waidi Shaibu, Olufemi Oluyede, Defence Headquarters, Army Headquarters Abuja, Leadership Transition, Military Reforms
#ZigDiariesDefence #NigerianArmy #WaidiShaibu #OlufemiOluyede #Defence #Security
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